Peregrine Falcon
Diana Nellans
Through the endangered species program, the peregrine falcon was reintroduced in1985 to Whiteside Mountain, part of the bird’s native range. These birds return annually to nest on the exposed rock faces. If you are hiking near Stonefly during the spring and summer, you may see peregrine falcons flying above or sitting on rock outcrops. During falcon nesting season however, normally February 15 to July 15, the rock face is closed to rappelling and climbing. Consider yourself most fortunate if you see a peregrine falcon, one of nature’s fastest and most beautiful birds. Whiteside Mountain is located near Cashiers, North Carolina and overlooks Stonefly.